Nigerian activist Aisha Yesufu has called for adherence to the rule of law in the ongoing detention of former Kaduna governor Nasir El-Rufai.
Yesufu said disagreement with El-Rufai’s past actions should not determine how justice is applied in a democratic society.
According to her, a government that claims commitment to democracy must ensure that the rule of law guides its actions.
She said if credible evidence exists against El-Rufai, the proper step is to formally charge him before a competent court.
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Yesufu stressed that the evidence should be presented openly and the legal process allowed to take its course.
She argued that indefinite detention without trial undermines democratic principles and raises concerns about fairness and accountability.
According to her, every Nigerian, regardless of political influence or public perception, has the constitutional right to a fair hearing.
She added that this right is not granted by government discretion but guaranteed under Nigeria’s legal framework.
Yesufu warned that allowing indefinite detention could create a dangerous precedent affecting other citizens in the future.
She said democracy requires justice to be administered transparently and through lawful judicial processes.
Her message, she said, is simple: authorities should either charge El-Rufai in court or release him.
Yesufu concluded that justice must always be pursued openly and in accordance with the law.
